Restaurants in Kazakhstan are witnessing shifts in consumer behavior amid ongoing economic pressure. While customers continue to visit cafés and restaurants, the average order size has declined significantly. Restaurateur Yuri Negodyuk shared these observations in an interview with the Forbes Kazakhstan YouTube channel.

According to the entrepreneur, customers who previously placed large orders are now more likely to limit themselves to a beverage and a light snack. At the same time, visitors may spend several hours at a venue with just a single cup of coffee.

Negodyuk noted that the restaurant industry is now competing not only with other dining establishments, but also with alternative leisure options such as streaming services, walking, and home entertainment. As a result, restaurants have become more accommodating toward guests making smaller purchases.

Against the backdrop of rising operating costs, the average bill at Negodyuk’s establishments has been increasing by around 30% annually over the past two years. He attributed the price growth to higher costs for food products, rent, utilities, and wages.

Negodyuk also stated that he recently closed six restaurants due to rising expenses, changing locations, and outdated business formats. At the same time, the entrepreneur opened eight new establishments.